Models & Mods: Ad Gevers

Posted on: Jan 24, 2017 · By: Jeff Dean - Classic Construction Models

Our newest blog series, “Models & Mods” is back to spotlight the modifications done to our models at home by collectors. This month we had the opportunity to speak with Ad Gevers about a project that he recently completed, a 1:48 scale Cat® 289C Track-Type Loader from a 272C Skid Steer.

Let’s take a look at Ad’s model and the work that went into converting a wheel-loader into a track-loader!

1. Did you start with an existing model or build from scratch? If an existing model, which one?

This Cat 289C Compact Track Loader model started out as a 1:48 scale brass 272C Skid Steer Loader from CCM, however the BR172 Brushcutter attachment was made entirely from scratch.

2. Why did you choose this model to modify?

I built this model for my collector friend, Wouter Mol (MiniMovers). He thought the model would make a great addition to his collection, and I liked the challenge involved in the build.

3. Can you walk us through the process of building these modified components? Material used, tooling required, any challenges you had, etc.?

For this project I started with a 272C Skid Steer Loader because the body of the machine is nearly identical to the 289C. Using a 1:50 scale spec sheet, I cut out a carton mold of the undercarriage and from that crafted a brass plate which allows for the entire undercarriage to be painted prior to assembly. After some trial and error, each new part is assembled and tested for fit and functionality.

The BR172 Brushcutter attachment was made entirely from scratch out of brass as well. Each piece was cut, shaped, and assembled to match the real attachment down to the smallest of details including a feed-through plate for the hydraulic lines. The chains on the front and rear of the brushcutter were modeled using a very fine wire mesh as there was no way to replicate the chains at this scale.

Once everything was built, it was time to paint. I had a can of spray paint custom matched to the donor model, made sure everything was smooth and ready to paint, and then thoroughly cleaned and degreased each part. Once the paint was applied, I waited 2 weeks before assembling the model to ensure the paint was properly set and hardened. The final step once the model was assembled was to add new 289C markings to the model.

For a full description of this build, including a full picture library of this build, take a look at the “Making Of” blog on MiniMovers.

4. How long did this project take you?

I was working on other projects at the same time, but from start to finish this model took just over a year.

5. Do you have any advice for other collectors looking to modify a model?

Just start! If you have some talent you will see that each project will bring you to a higher skill level. It is an amazing hobby! If you find that you do not have the talent to custom build models, stick to the ready-made models and enjoy projects from custom builders.

6. What project do you have in mind next (or are currently working on)?

Right now I am working on a Cat D8H Armored Track Type Tractor as used by the Australian Army in Vietnam. This is being made from a “donor” Cat D8K produced by Arpra Supermini in 1:50 scale.

7. Any suggestions for CCM on which model to make next?

I think it would be great if Classic Construction Models released a D7 Track-Type Tractor. I prefer a “Golden Oldie” but I would also like to see a D7G, my favorite of the D7 tractors. Besides this, I would like to see a D8K. It would be great to have all of these released in 1:48 scale die-cast so everyone is able to collect them!

We would like to extend a big thanks to Ad Gevers for being featured in our newest series, “Models & Mods”. The quality of work and level of detail realized on this modification is incredible, and we can’t wait to see what Ad will come up with next! For a full breakdown about this build, and to see more pictures of the model progress, check out the “Making Of” blog at www.minimovers.nl.

Have you been working on modifications to one of your CCM models? Send in your answers to these questions, along with pictures of your model, via Facebook message and you might be the next collector featured in our new series!